Fair parade grand marshals have long list of community involvement

    Jack and Ina Wilson of Imperial have been selected as the grand marshals for the 2018 Chase County Fair parade.
    When selecting the grand marshals, the goal is to give recognition to people who have contributed to the community and thank them for what they have accomplished, said Chris Lee, Chamber of Commerce board member.
    Jack and Ina Wilson fit that bill, he added.
    “Their generosity and caring attitude is what made them stand out as the grand marshals for this year,” Lee said.
    “We were told they would do anything for anybody,” he added.
    When notified they had been chosen as the grand marshals, the Wilsons each had their own reaction.
    “It’s an honor but a humbling experience. I’m sure others are more deserving,” Ina said.
    “I was shocked,” Jack said.
    Both of them expressed their appreciation for being selected.
    Jack was on the Imperial Community Center board for 20 years, part of which time he served as chairman.
    Even though he has retired, he still volunteers at the center with whatever is needed.
    Ina said they both spend time socializing at the community center and helping any way they can.
    “We are slowing down a little. We have a three-and-a-half lots around our house to maintain. It’s a lot of work and keeps us busy,” Ina said.
    Originally from Benkelman, the Wilsons have lived in Imperial since 1977.
    Jack retired from the Nebraska Department of Roads in 1994 after 43 years.
    “I started on a shovel and ended up superintendant,” he said.
    Ina started working at Dundy Co. Hospital in Benkelman for room and board at age 13.
    She became an LPN in 1956 and dedicated her life to helping people.
    “It was a big deal back then to get your LPN license. We had to ride the train from Benkelman to Lincoln to take the test,” she said.

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